Japanese Taishō Period Bronze Champlevé Urn with Buddha Figure Lid, c. 1915

A circa 1915 antique Japanese Taishō period larger-size bronze champlevé urn or vessel with buddha figure lid and familial scene on body.

Cast bronze form with very handsome and uniform dark brown natural patina and colorful champlevé—rather than cloisonné—enameled decorations throughout. Features a benevolent buddha figure attired in geometrically-patterned robes sitting atop the lid, a nearly spherical body prominently displaying charming familial scenes, and archaistic serpent or dragon-motif handles.

Delightful depiction of a regally-attired and coiffed Japanese mother, father, and child riding astride horseback on an off-white road beneath weeping willows is set against a diamond-patterned turquoise background, and repeated in triplicate around the body.

A colorful band with an overlapping design encircles the top of the urn’s body, while a lotus flower foliate-themed decoration covers the lower portion of the lid and encircles the waist of the urn’s base.

Marked on underside with an applied round tapon displaying traditionally written Chinese-style Japanese characters that reference the Taishō period within a foliate border.

Dimensions overall Height: 15 in Width: 15.5 in Depth: 11.5 in.
Body is 12.75 inches in diameter, and base is 11 inches in diameter. Weighs a substantial 19 lbs.

Condition: Good
Wear consistent with age and use. In very good antique condition with natural dark patina. Light surface wear to enamel in spots and some mostly small, minor marks on bronze. A smattering of very tiny and isolated pitting in the enamel, a typical result of the fabrication process.